Head of Private Clients – Leadership Role

Overview:
A well-regarded and progressive law firm is seeking a dynamic and experienced professional to lead its Private Clients Department. This senior position offers the opportunity to shape and grow a key area of the firm, combining legal expertise with strategic and operational leadership. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong technical capability, commercial awareness, and a proactive approach to team management and client service.

Key Responsibilities:

The role comprises both legal/fee-earning duties and departmental leadership responsibilities:

Legal & Fee-Earning Responsibilities

• Provide expert legal advice on estate planning, trust management, and inheritance tax.

• Manage complex estate administration matters, including high-value assets, tax relief claims, and contentious family matters.

• Advise on Court of Protection applications, statutory Wills, and lifetime gifting.

• Lead estate and trust administration cases with strategic oversight on investments, property sales, and distributions.

• Ensure compliance with AML, KYC, and file management standards, maintaining up-to-date knowledge of relevant laws and regulations.

• Build and maintain strong client relationships, with a focus on retention and cross-referral opportunities.

• Contribute to the development of the department through mentoring and collaboration with junior team members.

• Support financial growth by meeting departmental KPIs and revenue targets.

• Participate in firm-wide risk management, marketing, and business development initiatives.

• Supervise legal staff, monitor performance metrics, and support professional development.

Departmental Leadership & Management

• Communicate business plans and targets clearly across the team.

• Lead regular team meetings and performance reviews to drive quality and efficiency.

• Supervise, mentor, and delegate work to junior staff, including trainees and paralegals.

• Conduct appraisals, set objectives, and manage professional development plans.

• Oversee daily operational matters including attendance, holiday scheduling, and resource planning.

• Attend internal review meetings with senior leadership and contribute to strategic discussions.

• Ensure timely and accurate administrative processes including billing, time recording, and invoicing.

Candidate Profile:

• Significant experience in private client work, particularly in estate and trust matters.

• Demonstrated leadership in a legal setting, with a track record of team management and business development.

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with a client-focused approach.

• Comfortable working independently and collaboratively at a senior level.

This is an excellent opportunity for a senior private client lawyer looking to take a leadership role within a forward-thinking and supportive environment. The position offers scope for influence, professional growth, and meaningful contribution to the firm’s long-term vision.